Corban & Blair acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, the Gadigal and Wangal peoples of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and recognise their enduring connection to land, sea and community. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
First Nations art is one of the world’s oldest continuing artistic traditions, with stories, knowledge and cultural practices shared through generations. Today, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists continue to honour these traditions while embracing contemporary styles and mediums, creating works that reflect Country, culture, identity and community.
Instagram has become a powerful platform to discover and support First Nations artists, offering a glimpse into their creative process, inspirations and latest works. From established artists to Aboriginal-owned art centres, here are some of our favourite First Nations creatives to follow.
Simone Thompson
Simone Thompson is a Naarm-based multidisciplinary Aboriginal artist with connections to the Wurundjeri and Yorta Yorta language groups and is Wiradjuri through her mother. Inspired by the Birrarung, Dhungala and Murrumbidgee Rivers, her work explores Country, waterways and Creation stories while celebrating the knowledge and traditions passed down through generations. Through her art, Simone shares stories of culture, connection and belonging.
Follow Simone on Instagram @simonethomsonart.
Lucy Simpson
Lucy Simpson is a Yuwaalaraay designer, artist and the Creative Director of Gaawaa Miyay, a 100% First Nations-owned design studio. Inspired by Country and First Nations design philosophies, her multidisciplinary practice spans illustration, textiles, public art and design. Through her work, Lucy explores the connections between people, place and wellbeing, creating thoughtful designs that celebrate culture, continuity and storytelling.
Follow Lucy on Instagram @gmiyay.
Lauren Freestone
Lauren Freestone is a contemporary Wiradjuri artist, mother and proud Wiradjuri woman living and creating on Gumbaynggirr Country on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. Her practice is deeply informed by the enduring connection between Country, culture and family, drawing inspiration from both her Wiradjuri ancestors’ homelands and the saltwater landscapes she calls home.
Raised in a home where creativity was ever-present, Lauren was surrounded by her father’s paintings, carvings, boomerangs and yidaki, experiences that nurtured her artistic voice from an early age. Today, her contemporary mixed media works evoke the rich textures, earthy palettes and quiet rhythms of Country, weaving together memory, identity and place. Each piece reflects a profound respect for the landscapes that continue to shape her, honouring the stories, strength and cultural continuity carried across generations.
Brad Turner
Brad Turner is a proud Bundjalung contemporary artist who rediscovered his passion for painting after his daughter sparked a renewed connection to their culture and heritage. Inspired by watching his grandfather paint as a child, Brad transformed his lifelong love of art into a full-time creative practice in 2020. His art focuses on earthy tones like yellow ochre, raw sienna and soft yellow-pink to ultimately create pieces that evoke a sense of calm.
Follow Brad on Instagram @bradturnercreative_.
Tjala Arts
Established in 1999, Tjala Arts is an Aboriginal-owned and managed art centre located in Amata on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in South Australia. Representing established and emerging Anangu artists, the centre is renowned for its vibrant paintings, fibre art, woodwork and innovative cultural projects that celebrate and preserve Anangu culture while supporting ethical Indigenous art practices.
Follow Tjala Arts on Instagram @tjalaarts.Â
